May 2025 - Northern Viking Explorer

May 23, 2025May 23, 2025

A Perfect Day in St. Croix on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas

Our Adventure of the Seas Caribbean cruise continued with an incredible day exploring the beautiful island of St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands. If you love rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant local culture, St. Croix is a must-see stop—and we captured it all in our latest video!

We arrived in Frederiksted, where Adventure of the Seas docked right next to Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady. One of the day’s highlights came right off the bat when we spotted sea turtles swimming just beside the pier—a magical welcome to this tropical paradise. 🐢

Our first stop was the lively local market, bustling with colorful tents, friendly vendors, and unique souvenirs—perfect for anyone wanting to bring a piece of St. Croix home. From there, we explored Fort Frederik, a historic fortress and museum that tells the story of the island’s fascinating past.

After soaking up some culture, we found a charming playground ideal for families and took a leisurely stroll along the Frederiksted waterfront promenade. The views of turquoise waters alongside the peaceful Verne L. Richards Veteran Park made for a refreshing break before heading back to Adventure of the Seas.

Following a quick lunch onboard, it was time to hit the beach. Paradise Beach, just a short walk from the pier, offered crystal-clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere—the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the Caribbean sunshine. ☀️🏖️

The day wrapped up beautifully with a stunning sail away from St. Croix’s shores, followed by a delicious dinner in the ship’s Sapphire Main Dining Room. To top it all off, we enjoyed the vibrant “Can’t Stop the Rock” show in the Lyric Theater—an energetic performance that kept the good vibes flowing.

Whether you’re planning your own Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas cruise or just dreaming of a Caribbean getaway, this day in St. Croix offers a fantastic mix of history, nature, and relaxation.

Check out the full experience in our latest video below and don’t forget to subscribe for more cruise adventures!

📽️ Watch Day 6: Exploring St. Croix & Paradise Beach on Adventure of the Seas
👉 Watch the video now

May 20, 2025May 20, 2025

Tour the Vitality Fitness Center on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas 🚢💪

If you’re planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean and wondering what the fitness options look like on board, you’re in luck! We recently had the chance to check out the Vitality Fitness Center on the Adventure of the Seas, and we’ve put together a full video tour to show you around.

🎥 Watch the Full Video Tour Here: https://youtu.be/y9EEelYzit0

Where is the Gym Located?

The Vitality Fitness Center is located at the front of the ship on Deck 11, offering stunning panoramic views while you work out. Whether you’re walking on a treadmill or lifting free weights, you’ll be doing it with the open ocean right in front of you.

Is the Gym Free to Use?

Yes, the gym was complimentary, which makes it easy to stay active while sailing. The hours of operation during our sailing were from 6 AM to 9 PM, giving guests plenty of flexibility to fit in a workout.

What Equipment is Available?

Even though the gym is on the smaller side, it’s well-equipped with a variety of fitness gear:
🏃‍♂️Treadmills, bikes, and ellipticals
💪Upper and lower body strength machines
🏋️‍♀️Free weights and benches
🌊Massive front-facing windows for beautiful ocean views
🧘‍♂️And more—everything you need for a well-rounded workout at sea

Whether you’re maintaining your fitness routine or just want to get moving, the Vitality Fitness Center has all the essentials.

Why You Should Watch the Video

In our video, we walk you through the entire gym so you know exactly what to expect. It’s great for first-time cruisers, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone curious about what Royal Caribbean offers in terms of health and wellness spaces.
👉 Watch the full tour now: https://youtu.be/y9EEelYzit0

Final Thoughts

The Vitality Fitness Center on Adventure of the Seas might be compact, but it’s clean, well-stocked, and offers unbeatable views. It’s a fantastic spot for anyone who wants to stay active while enjoying their cruise vacation.

Be sure to like the video, subscribe to Northern Viking Explorer, and tap the bell for more cruise tours, tips, and travel inspiration!

May 16, 2025May 16, 2025

🌴 Adventure of the Seas Day 5 – Exploring St. Thomas & Emerald Beach

Join us on Day 5 of our 8-night Caribbean Cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas as we explore the tropical beauty, history, and fun of St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands! From iguana encounters and colonial forts to crystal-clear beaches, this day was packed with unforgettable moments—and we’ve captured it all in our latest video.

🎥 Watch the full vlog here:
👉 Adventure of the Seas – Day 5: St. Thomas & Emerald Beach

🌅 Our St. Thomas Adventure

We kicked off the day with an unexpected (and hilarious) moment—a curious iguana startled us right in the port area as we stepped out to begin our day. Talk about a memorable start!

From there, we jumped into an open-air taxi and rode into the heart of Charlotte Amalie. After arriving downtown, we enjoyed a scenic walk along the historic Legislature building and waterfront, soaking in the views and the island atmosphere. But just as we approached the famous Fort Christian, a tropical rainstorm rolled in! We took shelter in the entrance of this iconic fort—the oldest standing structure in the U.S. Virgin Islands—while waiting for the skies to clear.

Once the sun returned, we explored the charming streets of Charlotte Amalie, including the famous Dronningens Gade (Main Street)—lined with shops, local vendors, and colonial architecture.

🏖️ Beach Time at Emerald Beach

After grabbing a bite to eat back on Adventure of the Seas, we headed back out to spend the afternoon at Emerald Beach, one of St. Thomas’s hidden gems. With its powdery white sand, calm turquoise waters, and laid-back tropical vibes, it was the perfect place to relax and soak in the Caribbean sunshine.

🚢 Evening Onboard Adventure of the Seas

As the ship departed St. Thomas, we were treated to a gorgeous sail away—complete with a fun horn battle between cruise ships! Back onboard, we enjoyed a delicious dinner in the Sapphire Main Dining Room, followed by an entertaining evening show at the Lyric Theater.

🌟 Why You’ll Love This Episode

Whether you’re researching for an upcoming cruise, reminiscing about your own vacation, or just daydreaming of a Caribbean escape, this video is packed with moments that will make you smile. From surprise animal encounters to historical sights, shopping, beach bliss, and cruise fun, it’s a little slice of paradise.

📺 Don’t miss this episode:

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May 13, 2025May 13, 2025

🎢 Experience the Thrill of the Dragon’s Tail Coaster in Labadee, Haiti | Royal Caribbean Adventure

If you’re cruising with Royal Caribbean and stopping at Labadee, Haiti, one adventure you won’t want to miss is the Dragon’s Tail Coaster. Perched on the lush hillside of this beautiful private resort, this alpine-style coaster offers sweeping views of the Caribbean and a thrilling ride you won’t forget.

I recently had the chance to ride the Dragon’s Tail Coaster and filmed the entire experience in first-person POV, so you can see exactly what it’s like before you go!
👉 Watch the full POV video here: https://youtu.be/tU0j-mIjhBY

🏝️ What Is the Dragon’s Tail Coaster?

The Dragon’s Tail Coaster is a unique, gravity-driven ride that twists and turns down the hillside of Labadee, overlooking the ocean. Riders control their own speed with hand brakes, making it great for both thrill-seekers and those looking for a scenic cruise excursion. Whether you’re flying solo or riding tandem, this attraction blends adrenaline and panoramic views in the best way.

✅ Ride Requirements (As Displayed on Location)

According to the posted safety sign at the entrance, here are some key rider requirements:

Drivers must be at least 12 years old, 54 inches (1.4 m) tall, and able to operate the brake system.
Passengers must be at least 5 years old and 38 inches (1 m) tall.
Riders aged 5 to 15 years must be accompanied by an adult or responsible person aged 18+.
Maximum combined weight is 375 lbs (170 kg) under normal conditions and 330 lbs (150 kg) in wet weather.

Additional safety rules include:

Long hair must be tied in a bun.
No loose clothing, cameras, or unsecured items.
No horseplay, and always keep a safe distance from other cars.
Remain seated with hands and feet inside the coaster at all times.

(See full sign in the image above for complete safety guidance.)

🎥 What You’ll See in the Video

In my video, you’ll get a first-person view as I speed down the track, navigating curves, hills, and incredible ocean views. I also go over important rider info and give you a real feel for the ride so you can decide if it’s right for your next cruise stop.

👉 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/tU0j-mIjhBY

🚢 Perfect for Royal Caribbean Cruisers

The Dragon’s Tail Coaster is available as an excursion through Royal Caribbean and is open to guests visiting Labadee on ships like:

Adventure of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
and many more!

If you’re planning a cruise with a Labadee stop, make sure to add this exhilarating coaster to your itinerary.

📌 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a coaster enthusiast or just looking for a fun activity with unforgettable views, the Dragon’s Tail Coaster in Labadee delivers. Don’t forget to watch the full ride POV and subscribe for more cruise content!

🎥 Watch Now: https://youtu.be/tU0j-mIjhBY

May 9, 2025

Exploring San Juan, Puerto Rico – Adventure of the Seas Day 4 Vlog

Day 4 of our 8-night Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas brings us to the historic and vibrant port of San Juan, Puerto Rico.

A Relaxing Morning at Sea

Our day began with a relaxing morning onboard, complete with a delicious breakfast in the Sapphire Dining Room. We also enjoyed the lively Island Frenzy Parade in the Royal Promenade before docking.

Discovering San Juan

Once in port, we set off to explore San Juan’s rich history. We visited two incredible forts:
🛡️ Castillo San Cristóbal – one of the largest Spanish fortifications in the New World.
🛡️ Castillo San Felipe del Morro – iconic, scenic, and surrounded by wide open grassy fields perfect for photos and soaking up the views.

Strolling Through Old San Juan

We wandered the colorful streets of Old San Juan, passed through the San Juan Gate, and walked along the famous Calle De La Fortaleza with its vibrant hanging decorations and charming architecture.

Evening Back on the Ship

After an afternoon of adventure, we returned to the ship for a relaxing evening. We enjoyed a flavorful dinner in the Sapphire Dining Room, reminiscing about our incredible day. Tomorrow, we head to St. Thomas for more island exploration!

📽️ Watch the Full Vlog

Join us on this unforgettable journey in our Day 4 vlog!
🎥 Watch now on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VKoHJyIC6N0

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📌 YouTube: Northern Viking Explorer
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May 2, 2025May 2, 2025

Adventure of the Seas Day 3 – Labadee Haiti, Coaster Thrills & Beach Vibes

Welcome to Day 3 of our Caribbean cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas! Today, we explore the stunning private destination of Labadee, Haiti, where adventure and island relaxation go hand in hand. From thrilling rides to serene beaches and vibrant onboard entertainment, this day is packed with unforgettable moments.

🎥 Watch the full vlog here:
👉 Adventure of the Seas – Labadee Beach Day & Dragon’s Tail Coaster (Day 3)

🚢 What We Did in Labadee, Haiti

Labadee is Royal Caribbean’s exclusive port on the northern coast of Haiti, offering a perfect mix of natural beauty and family-friendly fun. We started our day with one of the most exciting attractions on the island—the Dragon’s Tail Coaster. This alpine-style ride offers sweeping views as it twists through lush hillside terrain and is a must-try for anyone visiting Labadee.

After the adrenaline rush, we took time to explore Labadee’s walking trails, admire the rugged rock formations, and check out several of the island’s beautiful beaches. We spent a relaxing afternoon at Adrenaline Beach, known for its waves, views, and open space to unwind.

When lunchtime rolled around, we visited Café Labadee, one of three complimentary lunch spots available on the island. Conveniently located right along the beach, it offers a quick and casual place to grab some food before heading back to the sand and surf.

🌙 Back Onboard: Evening Highlights

Once we returned to the Adventure of the Seas, we freshened up for an elegant evening aboard. Dinner was served in the Sapphire Main Dining Room, where we enjoyed delicious dishes and great service as always.

Afterward, we made our way to the Lyric Theater for an energetic performance of “Invitation to Dance,” a colorful ballroom-style show featuring music and movement from around the world.

But the night didn’t stop there—the Greatest 80s Party Ever in the Royal Promenade brought everyone together with throwback hits, neon lights, and nonstop fun. It was the perfect high-energy ending to a fantastic day.

🎥 Watch the Labadee episode now:

📅 Coming Up Next: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Tomorrow, we arrive in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where we’ll continue this incredible 8-night journey through the Caribbean. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel and click the bell so you don’t miss Day 4 and beyond!

🌴 Is Labadee Worth Visiting?

Absolutely! Whether you’re chasing adventure on the Dragon’s Tail Coaster, enjoying the peace of the beaches, or exploring the scenic landscape, Labadee is a fantastic private island stop on any Royal Caribbean itinerary. It’s the kind of port day that has something for every traveler—no excursion required.

Thanks for following along on our cruise adventure! If you haven’t yet, check out our full Adventure of the Seas vlog series for more cruise tips, ship experiences, and destination highlights. See you in San Juan!